Black Sheep

Documentary-maker Andy MacDonald delves into the wild life of Freddie Angell, New Zealand's infamous wildlife smuggler. The discussion reveals Freddie's mischievous childhood antics evolving into serious wildlife crimes. Tales of his smuggling escapades, from stealing native birds to raiding museums for reptiles, paint a vivid picture of the dark underbelly of wildlife trafficking. With reflections on his dual life as a pet lover and criminal, MacDonald balances humor with urgent conservation messages, highlighting the implications of Angell's actions.

Dive into the intriguing life of Thomas Kendall, a missionary who returned from England with the first written dictionary of Te Reo Māori alongside a controversial arsenal of muskets. Discover the linguistic advancements he inspired, sparking a surge in Māori literacy that outpaced many Europeans. Explore his conflict between Christian beliefs and Māori spirituality, and his complexities during tumultuous times, revealing a man struggling with personal and cultural upheaval while leaving an unexpected legacy in the wake of colonial interactions.

Peter Lineham, Professor Emeritus of Religious History at Massey University, sheds light on the tumultuous life of early missionary Thomas Kendall. Kendall is known for facilitating the musket trade that fueled the bloody Musket Wars in New Zealand. This conversation navigates his conflicting identities as a missionary and arms dealer. Lineham also discusses Kendall's role in transforming Te Reo Māori into a written language and his spiritual shift from Christianity towards Māori beliefs, unveiling a complex legacy interwoven with cultural exchange.

Lynette Shum, a Wellington Chinese historian, and Redmer Isker, a historian specializing in the New Zealand Truth newspaper, discuss the troubling case of George Howe, a brothel-keeper accused of sexual exploitation. They delve into the sensationalist and racist media coverage that portrayed him as 'beastly' due to his Chinese ethnicity. The conversation explores anti-Chinese racism, the historical evolution of Wellington's Chinatown, and the broader impacts of societal prejudices on immigrant communities, illuminating a dark chapter in New Zealand's past.

In 1892, a masked highwayman terrorized New Plymouth, only to be revealed as the unassuming Robert Wallath. Driven by a fascination with notorious criminals, his motives blurred between divine inspiration and literary influence. The podcast explores Wallath's tumultuous teenage years, rebellion against family, and shocking crimes that sparked both fear and amusement in the community. It also examines the artifacts from his crime spree and reflects on the shifting perceptions of crime and redemption, offering insights into youth, faith, and the complexities of human behavior.

Delve into the haunting legacy of the Surafend massacre, examining the motivations and moral complexities behind the soldiers' actions. The discussion unveils the psychological toll of war and the clash of cultures between ANZAC troops and Egyptian locals. Explore grim allegations of war crimes committed by ANZAC units, contrasting heroism with historical misdeeds. Insightful reflections from historians shed light on the dark side of military conduct and the importance of recognizing these complex narratives in understanding contemporary justice.

Terry Kinloch, a military historian and author of "Devils on Horses," dives deep into the haunting Surafend massacre of December 1918. He unpacks the dire conditions that sowed resentment among the Anzac troops leading to tragic violence. Kinloch also discusses the chilling silence surrounding the event, the motive for revenge after a comrade's death, and the brutal response to the 1919 Egyptian Revolution. His insights reveal the complexities and darker sides of military history that often go overlooked.

Terry Kinloch, a military historian and author, delves into the Surafend massacre involving the Anzac Mounted Division. He recounts the emotional upheaval following General Allenby's scathing remarks, igniting defiance among soldiers. Kinloch explores the harrowing events of December 1918, where troops resorted to brutal violence after a soldier's death, examining the psychological impacts of war. The complex dynamics of desert warfare and the tumultuous relations with local populations set a dark backdrop, leaving many questions of accountability and motive still unanswered.

Black Sheep Season 8 is just around the corner with a whole new cast of controversial, villainous, or simply misunderstood figures from New Zealand history.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The last of the so-called 'lunatic asylums' closed only 20 years ago. They were founded on ideas of paternalism and social progress and survived on the basis they offered safety. In this special crossover with the Nellie's Baby Podcast, William Ray and Kirsty Johnston look into their origins. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details